Career change from Public Accounting to Finance, advice?

Hi all, this is my first thread. Really need some advice on a career change from accounting to finance. Please help. :))

Here's a little background about myself. M.A. (Economics) from top 30 university. GPA 3.5 CPA license, CFA Level II passed. 2 years in public accounting and 1 year in a real estate investment company as accountant... I live in Southern California. I'll move to the north if necessary.

*I don't hate accounting. But I major in Math/Econ. It was really an accident where I ended up. It was my mistake I didn't plan it well. *

I've been applying jobs for the past few days, for financial analyst roles. Some companies contacted me asking if I want to work for their accounting department...I DON'T. :))

Please, all the smart and nice people out there. Please give some career advice on this career switch. What's my best strategy now? Where should I land?

Corporate FP&A; valuation/advisory from accounting firms; research/analyst from wealth management... These are the areas I've been exploring...What do you think is my best shot? I know it's all about personal interest. But I also need a realistic evaluation about my qualifications.

I heard two things from recruiters: 1. start fresh from finance department as jr. 2. get a job in accounting department then transfer to FP&A. What do you think?

Thank you!!!!!

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